Many lessons on atomic structure begin with a recitation of the historic developments that led to the current theory. It is a valuable experience for students to understand that scientific ideas evolve over time in response to new and better data. Using a timeline layout, students will illustrate major atomic developments and outline how ideas changed over time. They should be sure to include a variety of different scientists and discoveries related to atomic theory in their timeline.
Students can upload pictures of these scientists or, in some cases, of their equipment, using Photos for Class. They can also describe the major advancements in each description box to make as detailed or general a timeline as is required by the level of chemistry they are studying.
For an alternative to the timeline layout, have students create a timeline poster to incorporate into a presentation or gallery walk. You can add more than one template to this assignment to give students lots of options!
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a timeline detailing the important events and scientists in the history of the Atomic Model.
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
---|---|---|---|
Event description | All the cells are clearly described with details of the significance of the milestone. | All the cells are clearly described. | Some cells are described. |
Visualization | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate all the 6 chosen historical moments. | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate some of the 6 chosen historical moments. | The storyboard cells does not clearly any of the 6 chosen historical moments. |
Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |